Cummins Inc. has started the successful commissioning of a new ethanol fuel test cell. Vale, Cummins, and Komatsu are making significant strides in retrofitting existing diesel engines in Komatsu surface mining haul trucks to run on both ethanol and diesel. This innovative dual fuel program is part of the three companies’ commitment to reducing emissions and increasing sustainability in the mining sector.
Haul trucks are known as one of the biggest sources of consumption of diesel among equipment in the mining sector. The new engine, a collaboration among the three companies, aims to utilize up to 70% ethanol as a cleaner alternative to diesel fuel, offering a sustainable solution for heavy machinery. Ethanol is known for its lower carbon emissions compared to traditional diesel, which aligns with global efforts to tackle climate change.
The multi-company initiative is focused on developing an engine that can seamlessly switch between ethanol and diesel. This flexibility not only enhances fuel efficiency but also ensures that the engine can adapt to different fuel availabilities, providing operational reliability across various regions.
Cummins, known for its expertise in engine design, is at the forefront, working on the advanced technology required for this dual-fuel system. Komatsu’s involvement brings the perspective of a leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, ensuring the engine meets the rigorous demands of these industries. Meanwhile, Vale contributes its extensive knowledge in mining operations, helping to tailor the engine for real-world applications.
“Our ongoing dual fuel project, developed in close collaboration with Cummins and utilizing a blend of ethanol and diesel, is an important bridge technology aimed at supporting Vale’s near-term decarbonization goals,” said Dan Funcannon, Senior Vice President, Surface Haulage, Komatsu. “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to practical, scalable solutions that advance sustainable mining. The launch of the dedicated test cell is an exciting milestone as we continue to develop and deploy low-carbon technologies for the future of haulage.”
This partnership represents a significant step forward in addressing the environmental impact of large-scale industrial vehicles. The use of ethanol, particularly in regions abundant in this resource, could lead to substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
As the project progresses, the companies plan to conduct extensive testing to ensure the engine’s performance and durability meet industry standards. The goal is to provide a reliable, sustainable alternative that doesn’t compromise on power or efficiency.
This initiative not only demonstrates a commitment to cleaner energy solutions but also showcases the potential for collaboration across industries to create impactful innovations. As a result, it underscores the integral role that the construction and engineering sectors play in advancing sustainable technology.
By focusing on dual fuel capabilities, Vale, Cummins, and Komatsu are paving the way for a more environmentally friendly approach to powering heavy-duty machinery. The success of this program could pave the way for broader adoption of such technologies across the globe, marking an essential evolution in how we think about energy and industrial efficiency.
Photo Credit: Komatsu
